There’s a saying that with age comes wisdom, and while that’s true, there’s evidence that also shows that despite the misconception that seniors minds only decline in older adulthood, they actually continue to develop. Based on these 4 stages presented by Dr. Gene Cohen, author of “Mature Minds”, older adulthood is a great time to get creative and try new things!

1. The Midlife Re-evaluation Stage: this stage is about exploration and transition. At this period in your life, start thinking about what you’ll want from your retirement. This is a good time to start dreaming about the future!

2. The Liberation stage: at the beginning of your retirement, once you enter this stage, let go of your inhibitions and start exploring and creating. This is a great time to take on new hobbies, envision what you want for yourself and your life during you retirement, and to make it happen!

3. The Summing up Stage: this stage occurs in the 60s, 70s and 80s and are about reflection and resolution, which is so important at a time when seniors need to accept the changes the aging process brings, and overcome it to ensure that they are successful and happy through the remainder of their lives. It’s also a great time to find new activities that help you to cope, so you have an outlet for the emotional trials you’re dealing with

4. The Encore Stage: it’s not the end, but a new beginning; the perfect time to cope and prepare for what might be ahead and be grateful for what you have

Via: Examiner

Image: guardian.co.uk

Home Care Florida and Senior Home Care Florida provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Jacksonville, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, St. Augustine, Tallahassee, Destin, and Palm Coast. Call us today at 904-363-6699 or 850-243-6464.

Q – My elderly mother was recently diagnosed with a chronic illness which they cannot treat because of her age. Can you provide me with any tips to help her cope with the unpleasant news that she recently received?

Coming to terms with the fact that you have a serious, even chronic illness is never easy, whether the news comes in your senior years or during the early stages of your life, you are forced to face your own mortality. Senior health can change quickly and drastically, so often receiving the news of a crippling illness, such as cancer can come as a serious shock.

To help your mother cope with the unpleasant news that she received, relating to her chronic illness, work with her to implement the following steps to increase her knowledge and drive her towards acceptance.

1. Get support – seniors can join support groups for those coping with chronic illnesses or seek independent support. Speaking with someone impartial, who is not a close family member or friend can be beneficial, since they will be better able to listen without becoming upset.
2. Keep records – maintain detailed records regarding medical history and treatment recommended by each doctor visited during the course of the illness.
3. Seek knowledge – learn as much as possible about the illness including symptoms, treatment methods and common procedures and operations.
4. Find a health advocate – seniors can benefit from having an escort at appointments, to keep records and assist with decisions
5. Accept your feelings – it’s okay to feel angry, sad or resentful for the cards you’ve been dealt; allow yourself to run the gamut of emotions and allow yourself to grieve.
6. Find acceptance – come to terms with your illness at your own stage.

Sources:
1. Cancer journal
2. Carol O’Dell Blog

Home Care Florida provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Palm Coast. Call us today at 904-363-6699 or 904-794-9450.